80 sports events brought $46M to West Michigan's economy in 2016

GRAND RAPIDS, MI - The West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC) hosted 80 youth and amateur sports events that attracted more than 154,850 athletes and visitors and generated more than $46 million in visitor spending in 2016.

"When we opened our doors 10 years ago, we couldn't have fathomed the pivotal role sports tourism would play in West Michigan, both in strengthening our economy and quality of life," WMSC President Mike Guswiler announced last week.

"Clearly, youth and amateur sports tourism is a key industry for our region and will continue to be for many years to come."